Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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Question 241: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of plastic bags liable for the 15 cent plastic bag levy which were bought in each of the years 2003, 2004, 2005 and to date in 2006; his views on whether a trend is emerging whereby the numbers of these bags in circulation is rising; if the Government is considering increasing the 15 cent levy to encourage further curbing the use of these bags by the public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22880/06]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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The 15 cent levy on plastic bags, as provided for in the Waste Management (Environmental Levy) (Plastic Bag) Regulations 2001, has led to a dramatic reduction in use of plastic bags with a consequent positive environmental benefit. Plastic shopping bags accounted for 5% of litter arising prior to the introduction of the levy, but for just 0.22% of litter arisings in 2004. An estimated 1.2 billion plastic bags were given away free by retailers each year prior to the introduction of the levy in March 2002.

The following table shows the number of bags for which levy receipts were remitted by the Revenue Commissioners in the subsequentyears.

While the trend is upwards, the figures must be interpreted with caution. Firstly, they are not a precise measure of the number of bags supplied — each year's figure will also include levies recovered in respect of earlier periods on account of retailers filing late returns and the recoupment of levies due following Revenue audit findings. Secondly, the increase in income is also likely to be due in part to increased enforcement by local authorities and audit activity by the Revenue Commissioners. Enforcement efforts have been stepped up and a special network of local authority officers has been established to monitor and co-ordinate the enforcement drive.

I have previously indicated that I am anxious to ensure that the levy's positive effect on our environment is maintained. To that end, I am currently reviewing all aspects of its operation, including the level at which the levy is set.